Protective case for portable electrical device

ABSTRACT

A case for a portable electrical device, such as a tablet computer, can protect the device when using in outdoor activities, such as boating or hiking, or in other conditions that present a danger to the device. The case includes an inner chamber for receiving the electrical device therein. The case includes open configuration in which the electrical device can be inserted therein or removed therefrom. The case can also include a closed configuration in which the device is enclosed therein. The case can include a first case portion and second case portion that sealingly engage each other so as to avoid the infiltration of water and/or other liquids into the inner chamber. The case can be adapted to allow a user to operate the device while enclosed therein. For instance, the case can include a screen through which the touchscreen of a device can still be operated.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/376,142, filed on Aug. 23, 2010, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

Embodiments relate in general to portable electrical devices and, more particularly, to the protection of such devices.

BACKGROUND

In modern society, there has been a proliferation of electrical devices, particularly of the portable variety. There are many instances in which such portable electrical devices are carried and/or used outdoors. For instance, some portable electrical devices, such as tablet computers, have navigation applications operating thereon. Such navigation applications lend themselves to use by individuals participating in a wide range of outdoor activities, such as recreational boating and hiking. However, using a tablet computer or other electrical device during such activities can subject the device to harsh conditions of the environment. For example, the device may come into contact with water, such as incidental contact or by accidentally dropping the device into water. Water can potentially infiltrate and damage or completely ruin the device. Further, the device may be dropped on a hard surface when participating in such activities, which can cause damage to the exterior of the device as well as the internal components thereof. Thus, there is a need for a system that can minimize such concerns.

SUMMARY

In one respect, embodiments are directed to a protective case for a portable electrical device. The case includes a first case portion and a second case portion attached to the first case portion such that an inner chamber defined therebetween. The inner chamber is configured to receive a portable electrical device.

The first and second case portions are selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to enclose the portable electrical device therein. The first case portion includes an opening providing visual access to the inner chamber. The opening is sealingly closed by a screen. The screen is configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber.

The case further includes a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal is configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber.

The first case portion can include an access opening to permit access to a portion of the inner chamber. Thus, a user can bring an item into direct engagement with a portion of a portable electrical device from outside the case though the access opening. In one embodiment, the case can further include a plug for selectively sealingly closing the access opening. Thus, the infiltration of water into the inner chamber through the access opening is prevented.

The first and second case portions can be hingedly attached to each other on a side of the first and second case portions. The first and second case portions can be configured to lockingly engage each other. Thus, inadvertent opening of the case can be minimized.

The case can be salt water resistant. The case can be blood resistant. The case can be buoyant in fresh water or salt water.

In another respect, embodiments are directed to a system for protecting a portable electrical device. The system includes a protective case. The protective case includes a first case portion and a second case portion. The first and second case portions collectively define an inner chamber configured to receive a portable electrical device. The first and second case portions can be rigid. The system also includes a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber of the protective case.

The first case portion includes an opening providing visual access to at least a portion of the inner chamber of the portable electrical device. The opening is sealingly closed by a screen. The screen is configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber. The first and second case portions are selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions enclose the portable electrical device within the inner chamber.

A seal is operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal is configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber when the case is in the closed configuration.

The system can further include a bracket for supporting at least a portion of the case. The bracket can also include a cradle portion for supporting at least a portion of a side of the case. The system can also include a base. The base can be adapted for attachment to a support surface. The bracket can be attached to the base. In one embodiment, the bracket can be selectively pivotably attached to the bracket.

The system can further include a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal can be configured to prevent the infiltration of water into the inner chamber. The case can be blood resistant.

In one embodiment, the portable electrical device can be a tablet computer having a touchscreen. The touchscreen can be operable from outside the case through the screen.

In still another respect, embodiments are directed to a system for protecting a portable electrical device. The system includes a support surface and a protective case operatively attached to the support surface. The protective case includes a first case portion and a second case portion. The first and second case portions collectively define an inner chamber. The inner chamber is configured to receive a portable electrical device. The case includes an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to sealingly enclose the portable electrical device in the inner chamber.

In one embodiment, the case can be indirectly attached to the support surface by a mount. The mount can be attached to the support surface. The mount engages the case.

In one embodiment, the support surface can be defined by a portion of a medical facility, an educational facility or a governmental building. In another embodiment, the support surface can be defined by a portion of a vehicle.

The system can further include a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is view of a protective case in a closed configuration.

FIG. 2 is a view of the protective case in an open configuration.

FIG. 3 is a view of the protective case in an open configuration, showing a portable electrical device received in a portion of the case.

FIG. 4 is a view of the protective case.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a first case portion of the protective case.

FIG. 6 is a view of a mount for the protective case.

FIG. 7 is a view of the protective case being supported by the mount.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the protective case being supported by the mount, wherein the mount is attached to a support surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Arrangements described herein relate to a protective case for a portable electrical device. Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are intended only as exemplary. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the aspects herein in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the invention. Arrangements are shown in FIGS. 1-8, but the embodiments are not limited to the illustrated structure or application.

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein can be practiced without these specific details.

Embodiments are directed to a protective case for a portable electrical device. Referring to FIG. 1, an example of a protective case 10 is shown. The case 10 includes a body 12. The body 12 can be any suitable shape. In one implementation, the body 12 can be generally rectangular, as is shown in FIG. 1. However, embodiments are not limited to this shape. Indeed, the body 12 can be generally triangular, parallelogram, trapezoidal, circular, oval, polygonal or irregular, just to name a few possibilities. The body 12 can be generally shaped like the shape of the electrical device received therein. Alternatively, the body 12 can be shaped differently from the device received therein.

The case 10 can include a front side 14, a rear side 16, an upper side 18, a lower side 20, a first lateral side 22 and a second lateral side 24. The terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” and “lateral” are used to facilitate the discussion and are not intended to be limiting. These terms are used to describe the position of the individual sides relative to the user when the device 10 is held in the position shown in FIG. 1. Naturally, a user may hold the device 10 in other orientations, such as about 90 degrees relative to the position shown in FIG. 1.

The case 10 can be openable to allow a portable electrical device to be selectively inserted therein or removed therefrom. The case 10 can include a closed configuration, an example of which is shown in FIG. 1. The case 10 can include one or more open configurations, examples of which are shown in FIGS. 2-3. When the case 10 is in an open configuration, a portable electrical device 26 can be received therein, as is shown in FIG. 3. The case 10 can be configured in any suitable manner to permit selective opening and closing thereof. For example, in one embodiment, the case 10 can be made of a plurality of case portions, including a first case portion 28 and a second case portion 30.

The first and second case portions 28, 30 can define any suitable portions of the case 10. As an example, the first case portion 28 can define at least a portion of the front side 14 of the case 10, that is, the side of the case 10 that faces toward a user when the case 10 is held in its normal operational position. The second case portion 30 can define the rear side 16 of the case 10, that is, the side of the case 10 that faces away from a user when the case 10 is held in its normal operational position. The first and second case portions 28, 30 can be made of any suitable material, including, for example, metals, polymers, resins or plastics. In one embodiment, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can be made of Noryl GTX830 Resin, which is available from SABIC Innovative Plastics, Pittsfield, Mass. The first and/or second case portions 28, 30 can be rigid. As a result, the case 10 can protect the device 26 when it is enclosed within the case 10. The first and second case portions 28, 30 can be made of the same material. Alternatively, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can be made of different materials. The case 10 can include one or more ergonomic features (not shown), such as grips, to facilitate a user's engagement of the case 10.

It should be noted that while the case is shown herein as having two case portions, it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. Indeed, the case 10 can have more than two case portions. Further, the case 10 is generally shown as having case portions 28, 30 that are separated in a longitudinal plane (the X-Y plane using the coordinate axis shown in FIG. 1) of the case 10. However, in some embodiments, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can be separated in planes in other directions, such as in the thickness direction (the Y-Z plane using the coordinate axis shown in FIG. 1) of the case 10 or in a plane defined by two or more of the X, Y and/or Z directions. Further, in embodiments with two case portions 28, 30, the case portions 28, 30 may be substantially equal in size, or the case portions 28, 30 can be unequal in size.

As is shown in FIG. 2, an inner surface 31 of the second case portion 30 can include various features. For instance, the second case 30 can include a plurality of ribs 33 projecting from the inner surface 31. The ribs 33 can have any suitable configuration. FIG. 2 shows one possible arrangement of the ribs 33, but embodiments are not limited to this configuration. The plurality of ribs 33 can be interconnected. However, one or more of the ribs 33 may not be connected to another one of the ribs 33. The ribs 33 can provide structural strength to the case 10. In addition, the ribs 33 can ensure that the portable electrical device 26 is spaced from the inner surface 31 of the second case portion 30. Such spacing can create one or more air pockets between the portable electrical device 26 and the inner surface 31. Such air pockets can promote buoyancy of the case 10 in fresh water, salt water and/or other liquids.

In some instances, there can be cutouts or passages (not shown) in the ribs 33 or even areas in which there are no ribs 33. Such arrangements can facilitate the passage of a cable, cord or other structure associated with the portable electrical device 26. In one embodiment, a portion of the second case portion 30 can be configured to facilitate the removal of the portable electrical device 26 from the case 10. As an example, a portion of the second case portion 30 can include a recess 39, as is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this way, when the case 10 is in the open configuration, a user can insert a finger in the recess 39, and thus between the portable electrical device 26 and the inner surface 31 of the second case portion 30, thereby assisting the user in lifting the device 26 out of the second case portion 30.

The second case portion 30 can have an outer rib 35 extending about the second case portion 30 proximate to the ends thereof. One example of an outer rib 35 is shown in FIG. 2. As is shown, the outer rib 35 can generally conform to the shape of the second case portion 30. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the outer rib 35 is generally rectangular. The outer rib 35 can be a continuous structure. The outer rib 35 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the outer rib 35 can be generally rectangular. As will be explained in more detail below, the outer rib 35 can facilitate sealing of the case 10. The outer rib 35 may or may not have the same height as the plurality of ribs 33. Further, at least some of the plurality of ribs 33 can be connected to the outer rib 35. In some instances, the outer rib 35 may not be connected to any of the ribs 33.

The case 10 can be configured to be selectively opened and closed in any suitable manner. For example, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can be hingedly connected. To that end, one or more hinges 32 can be provided. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-4, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can be hingedly connected at or near the lower side 20 of the case 10. However, embodiments are not limited to this arrangement. Indeed, the case 10 can be adapted to provide a hinged connection one the first lateral side 22, the second lateral side 24 or the upper side 18 of the case 10.

The hinges 32 can be configured in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the hinges 32 can by protrusions 34 of the first case portion 28 and by protrusions 36 of the second case portion 30. The protrusions 34, 36 can that include passages 38, 40 respectively extending therein. The protrusions 34, 36 can be provided in an alternating arrangement. In such case, the passages 38, 40 can be substantially aligned to define a common passage to receive a fastener therein, such as a hinge pin 42. The hinge pin 42 can be made of a corrosion resistant material, such as stainless steel. While embodiments are illustrated as having a hinged connection, it will be understood that other types of connection between the first and second case portions 28, 30 are possible. For instance, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can completely separate from each other when the case 10 is in an open configuration.

The first and second case portions 28, 30 can be configured to lockingly engage each other so that they remain engaged when the case is in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the first and second case portions 28, 30 can include cooperating structures and/or features to achieve such an end. As an example, the first case portion 28 can include tabs 44 with openings 46 that can lockingly engage respective shelves or protrusions 48 provided on the second case portion 30, as is shown in FIGS. 1-3. In some instances, the protrusions 48 can be configured so that a portion of each protrusion 48 is received in respective one of the openings 46 of the tabs 44 to thereby provide further engagement. However, it will be understood that the opposite arrangement can be provided in which tabs are provided on the second case portion and the protrusions are provided on the first case portion. Alternatively, the tabs 44 can have ramps or claws (not shown) on their underside to facilitate locking engagement with the protrusion 48. While FIGS. 1-3 show the tabs 44 and protrusions 48 being provided at or near the upper side 18 of the case 10, it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. Indeed, such features can be provided, alternatively or in addition, on the first and second lateral sides 22, 24 of the case 10. Still alternatively, such features can be provided on the lower side 20 of the case 10.

The first and second case portions 28, 30 can collectively define an inner chamber 50 of the case 10 (a portion of which is shown in FIG. 2). The inner chamber 50 can be sized to receive a portable electrical device therein, as is shown in FIG. 3. The inner chamber 50 can have any suitable shape.

The case 10 can receive any suitable portable electrical device 26. “Electrical device” means any device that is at least partially powered by electrical energy. The electrical device 26 can be any suitable device including, for example, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a digital reader, a handheld device having wireless connection capability, a computer (e.g., a laptop), a portable electrical device, a portable computing device, an entertainment device (e.g., a music or video device, or a satellite radio), or any other suitable device that is configured to communicate via a wireless or wired medium, a digital audio player (e.g., MP3 player), or an e-book reader. Embodiments described herein can be implemented to receive any suitable portable electrical device, including any of those listed above. The electrical device 26 may have a display, which can be any suitable type of display. In one embodiment, the display can be a touchscreen 52 (FIG. 2).

The electrical device 26 can include a user interface with one or more inputs for receiving input from a user. Examples of suitable inputs can include, for example, a keypad, display, touch screen, button 67 (FIG. 3), joystick, mouse, microphone or combinations thereof. The user interface of the electrical device 26 can include an output for presenting information to the user. The output can include one or more microphones, earphones and/or speakers. The output may present visual information to the user and, in such case, can include a display. It should be noted that one or more of the items noted above may serve dual purposes such that the item is part of the input as well as the output system.

The portable electrical device 26 may include a component interface (not shown). Additional elements can be operatively connected to the component interface, including, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) interface. The portable electrical device 26 may include an interface to allow the portable electrical device 10 to be charged by an external source of electrical energy.

The inner chamber 50 of the case 10 can be sized, shaped, and/or otherwise configured to receive a specific portable electrical device 26. For example, the inner chamber 50 of the case 10 can be configured to receive a tablet computer. In such cases, other types of portable electrical devices 26 may not fit within the inner chamber 50. In some embodiments, the inner chamber 50 of the case 10 may be configured to receive multiple types of portable electrical devices therein. More particularly, in some instances, the inner chamber 50 can be adapted to allow a user to alter the inner chamber 50 of the case 10 to accommodate a desired portable electrical device.

The case 10 can include an opening 54 to permit visual access to the inner chamber 50 and, more particularly, to at least a portion of the portable electrical device 26 received within the case 10. “Visual access” means that, from the outside of the case 10, a user can see the inner chamber 50 and/or at least a portion of a portable electrical device 26 enclosed therein using his or her sense of sight, either with or without the aid of sight facilitating device (i.e., glasses, magnifier, etc.). In one embodiment, the opening 54 can be provided on the front side 14 of the case 10. The case 10 can include a screen 56 to close the opening 54 while still allowing the user to view and/or engage a user interface of the portable electrical device 26, such as a touchscreen 52 or keyboard. The screen 56 can be transparent or translucent. The screen 56 may be made of any suitable material, including, for example, plastic. In one embodiment, the screen 56 can be made of a polyester film, such as MELINEX® 453 or MELINEX® ST505, both of which are available from DuPont Teijin Films, Chester, Va. The screen 56 can be configured to minimize or prevent glare. Thus, at least a portion of the screen 56 can be treated to reduce glare, or at least a portion of the screen 56 can be coated with an anti-glare material. The screen 56 can also be configured to minimize fogging. The screen 56 can be flexible.

The screen 56 can be attached to the first case portion 28 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the screen 56 can be sealingly attached to the first case portion 28 of the case 10 to close the opening 54. For instance, the screen 56 can include a border 58 (FIG. 5) that can engage the screen 56 on one side and an inner surface 60 of the first case portion 28 on the other side. Any suitable manner of engagement can be used, such as adhesion or bonding. The border 58 can be any suitable material or structure. In one embodiment, the border 58 can be double sided adhesive tape, such as TESA® 4965 available from Tesa Tape, Inc., Charlotte, N.C. The engagement can be such that a seal is formed between the screen 56 and the first case portion 28, thereby preventing the infiltration of water or other liquids into the inner chamber 50 of the case 10.

There can be any suitable amount of overlap between the screen 56 and the inner surface 60 of the first case portion 28 to ensure sufficient sealing. In one embodiment, the amount of overlap between the screen 56 and the first case portion 28 can be substantially identical about the opening 54. In some instances, the amount of overlap between the screen 56 and the first case portion 28 may not be substantially identical about the opening 54.

The case 10 can be configured to minimize or prevent the infiltration of water and/or other liquids, even when the case 10 is submerged in water (fresh and/or salt) and/or other liquid. To that end, one or more seals 62 can be operatively positioned between the first and second case portions 28, 30. The seal 62 can be any suitable type of seal, such as a rope-like seal or gasket. The seal 62 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the seal 62 can have a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. The seal 62 can have any suitable thickness. The seal 62 can be made of any suitable material, such as rubber, neoprene or foam. As an example, the seal 62 can be made of PORON® 4701-41 available from Rogers Corporation, Woodstock, Conn. Alternatively, the seal 62 can be made of HyPUR-cel® SCE41B available from Rubberlite, Inc., Huntington W.V.

The seal 62 can be continuous. An example of a continuous seal 62 is shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the seal 62 may not be continuous. For instance, the seal can include a plurality of seal segments that can abut each other or that can be joined in some manner. The seal 62 can have any suitable overall shape. For instance, the seal 62 can generally correspond to the shape of the case 10. In one embodiment, the seal 62 can be generally rectangular, as is shown in FIG. 5.

In one embodiment, the seal 62 can be provided generally around the entire interface between the first and second case portions 28, 30. There can be a single seal 62, as is shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, there can be a plurality of seals (not shown). The seal 62 can be received in a channel 64 provided in one of the case portions 28, 30. As an example, FIG. 5 shows an embodiment in which the first case portion 28 provides a channel 64 for receiving at least a portion of the seal 62 therein. However, embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. It will be understood that, alternatively or in addition, a channel can be provided in the second case portion. In one embodiment, the channel 64 can be formed in a generally U-shaped rib 65 that extends from an inner surface 60 of the first case portion 28, as is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In another embodiment, the channel 64 can be formed by a recess in the inner surface 60 of the first case portion 28.

The channel 64 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, and can extend in any suitable manner about the interface between the first and second case portions 28, 30. The channel 64 can be a single continuous channel, as is shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the seal can be collectively formed by a plurality of individual channels (not shown). In such case, the channels 64 can be selectively placed about the interface between the first and second case portions 28, 30. In some instances, a channel may not be provided for the seal 62. The seal 62 may be attached to one of the case portions 28, 30, such as by adhesives, bonding or mechanical engagement.

In one embodiment, when the case 10 is in a closed configuration, at least a portion of the outer rib 35 of the second case portion 30 can be received in the channel 64 of the first case portion 28. Thus, the interlocking engagement of these items can create a labyrinth type seal. Further, the seal 62 can be operatively positioned therebetween to further promote sealing of the inner chamber 50 of the case 10. For instance, the outer rib 35 can directly engage and compress the seal 62 so as to fill in the space between the outer rib 35 and the channel 64. In this way, the inner chamber 50 of the case 10 can be substantially sealed. The inner chamber 50 can remain dry even when immersed in water and/or other fluid. Thus, any portable electrical device 26 enclosed within the inner chamber 50 can be protected.

As noted previously, the case 10 can be adapted to be buoyant in freshwater and/or saltwater. The case 10 can be adapted to be buoyant with and/or without the portable electrical device 26 being contained therein. Thus, it will be appreciated that, if the case 10 is dropped into a body of water, such as a pond, lake, ocean, or swimming pool, the case 10 can float. As a result, the case 10 can be more readily located and retrieved from the surface of the body of water. Such buoyancy can be achieved in any suitable manner, including, as noted above, by creating one or more air pockets between the portable electrical device 26 and the inner surface 31 of the second case portion 30.

The case 10 can be resistant to blood, water and/or saltwater. The case 10 can be chemically resistant. The case 10 can be sized so as to minimize the increase in the outer envelope of the portable electrical device 26 so as not to interfere with the user's use, enjoyment and/or transportation of the device 26. Further, the case 10 can be configured to be as lightweight as possible. In one embodiment, the case 10 can weight about two pounds or less. In another embodiment, the case 10 can weight about one pound or less.

The case 10 can be configured to provide shock resistance to the portable electrical device housed within. Shock resistance can be provided in any suitable manner. For instance, the case 10 can include dampening structures and/or materials to minimize movement and vibration of the device within the inner chamber 50 of the case 10. Such structures and materials can also minimize the transmission of the force of an impact to the portable electrical device 26 when it is housed within the case 10.

As an example, FIG. 2 shows an embodiment in which a plurality of pads 51 is provided on the second case portion 30. The pads 51 can have any suitable size and/or shape. In one embodiment, the pads 51 can be substantially circular. The pads 51 can be substantially identical to each other or one or more of the pads 51 can be different from the other pads 51 in one or more respects. The pads 51 can be arranged in any suitable manner. There can be any suitable quantity of pads 51. While FIG. 2 shows an example in which there are four pads 51, the number of pads 51 used can be fewer or greater than four. The pads 51 can be made of any suitable vibration dampening material. In one embodiment, the pads 51 can be made of foam or rubber. The pads 51 can be made of the same material, or at least one of the pads 51 can be made of a different material. The pads 51 can be attached to the second case portion 30 in any suitable manner, including, for example, by fasteners, adhesives and/or mechanical engagement, just to name a few possibilities.

In some instances, an insert pad (not shown) can be placed in the second case portion 30 such that it at least partially separates the portable electrical device 26 from the second case portion 30. The insert pad can be generally rectangular or other suitable shape. The insert pad can be used to provide vibration dampening benefits. The insert pad can also help to maintain a user interface (i.e., the touch screen 52) of the portable electrical device substantially adjacent to the screen 56. “Substantially adjacent” includes direct contact as well as slight spacing therebetween. In this way, a user can interact with the user interface of the portable electrical device 26 through the screen 56 with minimal or no hindrance.

As noted above, the portable electrical device 26 can include an input and/or an output. For instance, the portable electrical device 26 can include a button 27, as is shown in FIG. 3. In such case, the case 10 can be adapted to permit a user to engage the button 27 from outside the case 10. To that end, the case 10 can be adapted with an external button 67. When the case 10 is in a closed configuration, the button 67 of the case 10 can be substantially aligned with the button 27 of the portable electrical device 26. Thus, when depressed, the button 67 can directly or indirectly engage the button 27 on the portable electrical device 26 so that the button 27 is depressed or otherwise actuated.

The button 67 can be provided in any suitable manner. For instance, in one embodiment, the case 10 can include an opening 66 extending from the exterior of the case 10 to the inner chamber 50 of the case 10. A corresponding opening 68 may or may not be provided in the screen 56.

While FIGS. 1-3 show there being a single button 67, it will be understood that there can be a plurality of buttons 67. It will be appreciated that the buttons 67 can be selectively placed on the case 10 to permit appropriate engagement with buttons 27 or other structure of the portable electrical device 26.

Within the opening 66, there can be a button element 72 (see FIGS. 1 and 5) or other closure device can be received in and/or retainer in the opening 66. The button element 72 can be adapted to substantially seal the opening 66 from the infiltration of water, salt water, chemicals, blood or other liquid. The button element 72 can be made of any suitable material, including plastic, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the button element 72 can be made of polyethylene. In some instances, the button element 72 may have a seal provided thereon to sealingly engage the opening 66. In addition, in some instances, the button element 72 may be covered on the inner surface 60 of the first case portion 28 by the screen 56.

When the button 67 is pressed from outside the case 10, a least a portion of the button element 72 can move toward the inner chamber 50 of the case and into engagement with the button 27 of the portable electrical device 26, thereby operating the button 27. In one embodiment, when a user pushes or presses the button 67 from the outside of the case 10, a portion of the button element 72 may be urged toward the inner chamber 50 under the force of compression. Alternatively, the button element 72 can urged another structure (not shown) into engagement with the button 27 of the portable electrical device 26.

Further, the case 10 can be adapted to permit a user to access one or more inputs and/or outputs of the portable electrical device 26. For instance, in one embodiment, the case 10 can include an access port 70. The access port 70 can extend from the exterior of the case 10 to the inner chamber 50 of the case 10. The access port 70 can be formed by a hole 71 in the first case portion 28 and a hole (not shown) in the screen 56 of the case 10. The access port 70 can be sized to allow passage of any suitable structure. For instance, the access port 70 can be sized to allow at least a portion of a USB cable (such as on a flash drive or an auxiliary device), a charging cable, headphones cable, or other cable and/or connector to be inserted therethrough to engage a component interface or other interface of the portable electrical device 26.

While FIGS. 1-3 show there being a single access port 70, it will be understood that there can be a plurality of access ports 70. It will be appreciated that the access ports 70 can be selectively placed on the case 10 to permit appropriate access to the input(s) and/or output(s) of the portable electrical device 26. Further, while the access port 70 is shown on the front side 14 of the case 10, the access port 70 can be provided in any suitable location on the case 10, including on the rear side 16, the upper side 18, the lower side 20, the first lateral side 22, and/or the second lateral side 24.

The access ports 70 can be closed in any suitable manner. For instance, a plug 73 (see FIG. 1) or other closure device can be received in at least the hole 71. The plug 73 can be adapted to substantially seal the hole 71 from the infiltration of water, salt water, chemicals, blood and/or other liquid. The plug 73 can be made of any suitable material, including plastic, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the plug 73 can be made of polyethylene. In some instances, the plug 73 may have a seal provided thereon to sealingly engage the hole 71. In some instances, the plug 73 can be made of a compressible material. In such case, the plug 73 can be sized larger than the hole 71 when in an uncompressed condition. Thus, when the plug 73 is compressed to fit within the hole 71, the plug 73 can expand to sealingly engage the hole 71.

In some instances, the protective case 10 can be configured to retain the plug 73 to minimize the likelihood of the plug 73 being misplaced or lost. To that end, the case 10 can include a retainer strap (not shown). The retainer strap can be connected to the plug 73 at one end and to the body 12 of the case 10 at a second end. The retainer strap can be made of any suitable material and can have any suitable form.

The case 10 can be configured to facilitate its transportation. For instance, the case 10 can include one or more carrying straps (not shown). For instance, the case 10 can include a strap (not shown) to assist a user in carrying the case by hand. In such case, the strap could be provided on any suitable portion of the case 20, including the rear side 16, the first lateral side 22, the second lateral side 24, the upper side 18 or the lower side 20. In one embodiment, one or more straps (not shown) can be provided on the rear side 16 of the case 10 such that a user can hold the device 10 with one of his or her hands inserted between the case 10 and the one or more straps. Thus, the inside of the user's hand can engage the rear side 16 of the case 10 and outside of the user's hand can be engaged by the one or more straps. Thus, the user's other hand can remain free to interact with the device 26 within the case 10 or to perform some other activity. Alternatively or in addition, a shoulder strap (not shown) can be attached to the case 10. Alternatively or in addition, the case 10 may come with a carry case (not shown) within which the protective case can be placed and carried.

The case 10 can be adapted for mounting to a support surface 74 (FIG. 8). Such mounting can be achieved in any suitable manner. For instance, the case 10 can be configured to allow the case to be directly mounted to a support surface 74. To that end, the case 10 can be equipped with features and/or structures to facilitate such mounting. As an example, FIG. 4 shows an embodiment in which the rear side 16 of the case 10 can include spacers 76 which can receive and engage a fastener, such as a bolt 78. In some instances, spacers may not be provided, but instead, sleeves (not shown) can be provided in the rear side 16 of the case 10. Such sleeves can be substantially flush with the surface of the rear side 16 of the case 10. The sleeves can be adapted to receive and engage a fastener therein, such as by threaded engagement.

Alternatively, the case 10 can be indirectly mounted to the support surface 74, as is shown in FIG. 8. To that end, a mount 80 can be provided. One example of a suitable mount is shown in FIG. 6. However, it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to the mount structure shown. As an example, the mount 80 can include a base 82 and a bracket 84.

The bracket 84 can have any suitable configuration and can have any suitable features. In one embodiment the bracket 84 can include a plurality of slots 85 therein. Such slots 85 may help to maintain the rigidity of the bracket 84. Further, the bracket 84 can have rearward extending ears 87 to engage with the base 82. However, in some embodiments, such as when the bracket 84 is mounted directly to a support surface, the bracket 84 may not include such ears 87 to allow the bracket 84 to be mounted substantially flat against a support surface.

The base 82 and the bracket 84 can be connected in any suitable manner. For instance, the bracket 84 can be selectively pivotably attached to the base 82. The bracket 84 can pivot relative to the base 82 about an axis 88. Any suitable range of pivoting motion can be permitted. To that end, a portion of the bracket 84 can be connected to a portion of the base 82 by a fastener, such as a bolt or pin (not shown), that extends along the axis 88. A knob 90 can be provided on an end of the fastener to facilitate user interaction. In FIG. 6, only one area of pivotable attachment of the bracket 84 and base 82 is shown. However, the same or a similar pivotable attachment arrangement can be provided on the other side of the mount 80 (not visible in FIG. 6).

The mount 80 can be configured to prevent or minimize pivoting motion of the base 84 and/or bracket 12 at undesired times. Any of a number of suitable anti-rotation features and/or structures can be implemented in this regard. In one embodiment, one or more anti-rotation pads (not shown) can be operatively positioned between the knob 90 and the bracket 84 and/or between the bracket 84 and the base 82. The anti-rotation pads (not shown) can be any suitable structure, including for example, a piece of polyethylene material adapted to be attached to the bracket 84 and/or the base 82.

The mount 80 can be mounted in fixed relation to the support surface 74 (FIG. 8). For instance, one or more holes 92 (FIG. 6) can be provided in the base 82 for allowing the passage of a fastener, such as a bolt (not shown), therethrough and into engagement with the support surface 74. The support surface 74 may be adapted to provide suitable engagement, such as by providing holes. Alternatively or in addition, the bracket 84 can be mounted so that at least a portion of the bracket 84 can rotate relative to the support surface 74, such as about an axis (not shown) that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface 74. Any suitable range of rotation can be provided.

The mount 80 can be made of any suitable material, including, for example, plastic or metal. The mount 80 can be made of a corrosion resistant material. In one embodiment, the mount 80 can be made of aluminum, such as 6061 aluminum. The bracket 84 and the base 82 can be made of the same material. Alternatively, the bracket 82 and the base 82 can be made of different materials.

The bracket 84 can be configured to support the case 10 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the bracket 84 can be configured to engage at least the upper side 18 and/or the lower side 20 of the case 10. FIG. 8 shows an example in which at least a portion of the lower side 20 of the case 10 can be supported by a cradle portion 86 of the bracket 84. Alternatively or in addition, the upper side 18 of the case 10 can engage an upper tab 94. In some instances, the upper tab 94 can include a generally downwardly extending protrusion 96 for directly engaging the upper side 18 of the case 10. Further engagement between the bracket 84 and the case 10 can be provided. For instance, fasteners, such as screws 96, can be used to attach the bracket 84 to the case 10. Such screws 96 can extend through holes 95 (FIG. 6) provided in the bracket 84 and into receiving openings (not shown) in the rear side 16 of the case 10. Such engagement can help to retain the case 10 in the bracket 84 under harsh or heavy vibration conditions.

Again, these are just a few examples of manners in which the bracket 84 can engage the case 10. Embodiments are not limited to these arrangements. Indeed, there can be other engagement points, including, for example, between the bracket 84 and the first and/or second lateral sides of the case 10. In some instances, a user may be able to open the case 10 while it is engaged by the mount 80. In other instances, a user may have to remove the case 10 from the mount 80 to open the case 10.

It should be noted that the support surface 74 to which the case 10 or the mount 80 is attached can be any suitable surface. For instance, the support surface 74 can be a portion of a motorized or non-motorized vehicle, including a car, a truck, a recreational vehicle (RV), a boat, a ship, an airplane, a kayak, a canoe, a military aircraft, a military vehicle, a submarine, a hovercraft, just to name a few possibilities. The support surface 74 can also be a structure such as a portion of a medical facility (i.e., a hospital, a clinic, a doctor's office, etc.), an educational facility (i.e., a school, trade school, tutoring center, university, etc.), a government facility (i.e., a city hall, a community center, a library, an agency, a court, a legislative building, etc.), a military building, a campground, a park, a gym, a factory, a business, a residential dwelling, a swimming pool area, an amusement park, a waterpark, a museum, a restaurant, a religious facility (i.e., a church, synagogue, temple, mosque, etc.), just to name a few possibilities. As an example, in the context of a hospital, the support surface 74 can be a portion of a table, a wall, a cabinet and/or a desk. In any setting, one or more mounts 80 can be provided. In some instances, a plurality of mounts 80 can be provided in different locations in an area. Thus, the case 10 can be placed into engagement with a mount 80 in one area. When ready to move to another area, the user can disengage the case 10 from the mount 80. If the user moves to another location in which a mount is provided, the user can engage the case 10 and the mount 80 so that the user no longer has to hold the case 10.

Now that the individual components of various embodiments have been described, one manner of the operation of the system will now be described. It will be understood that the following description is merely exemplary. Beginning with the case in the closed configuration (FIG. 1), the case 10 can be brought into an open configuration (FIG. 2) by disengaging the first and second case portions 28, 30. A portable electrical device 26 can be placed into the case 10, such as in the second case portion 30 as is shown in FIG. 3. The case 10 can be brought to the closed configuration as shown in FIG. 1 with the device 26 therein.

With the portable electrical device 26 inside the case 10, the user can still operate and manipulate the user interface of the portable electrical device 26. For instance, the user can still engage the touchscreen 52 of the device 26 though the screen 56 of the case 10. Again, the screen 56 is configured so as not to interfere with the user's operation of the touchscreen 52 or other user interface. Thus, the user can continue to use the device 26. The case 10 can be configured so that the touch screen 52 or other user interface of the device 26 is substantially adjacent to the screen 56. As a result, user engagement of a user interface of the portable electrical device 26 can be facilitated.

If the user wishes to connect a USB connector or other connector to the electrical device 26, the user can remove a plug 72 that may be provided to permit access to an appropriate interface of the device 26. With the plug 72 removed, the user can insert the cable, connector or other item through the access opening 66 and into engagement with the device 26.

It will be appreciated that a protective case described herein can provide numerous advantages. For instance, the case 10 can provide protection to the electrical device 26 when dropped, struck by an object or coming into contact with water or other liquid. Thus, the case can allow a user to use their electrical device 26 in conditions that would otherwise subject the device to damage. Thus, the case 10 can expand the ways in which individuals may use an electrical device while reducing the likelihood that the device 26 will be damaged. Thus, if a person wishes to use an electrical device at, near or in water, then the device can be placed inside the case 10 and the person can use the device without fear that the device will be damaged by the water. Also the case can protect the portable electrical device housed within from dust, dirt, sand and/or other substances.

Further, the case is sufficiently small and lightweight so that it does not interfere with the portability of the electrical device. Moreover, the case 10 does not change or interfere with the typical user interface of the device 26. For example, a touchscreen of the device 26 will still function as it would without the device being enclosed in the case 10. Thus, a user can continue to listen to music, use application software, check emails, or watch videos on the device, just to name a few examples.

The terms “a” and “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language).

Moreover, as used herein, ordinal terms (e.g. first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, and so on) distinguish one message, signal, item, object, device, system, apparatus, step, process, or the like from another message, signal, item, object, device, system, apparatus, step, process, or the like. Thus, an ordinal term used herein need not indicate a specific position in an ordinal series. For example, a process identified as a “second process” may occur before a process identified as a “first process.” Further, one or more processes may occur between a first process and a second process.

Aspects described herein can be embodied in other forms and combinations without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof. Thus, it will of course be understood that embodiments are not limited to the specific details described herein, which are given by way of example only, and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective case for a portable electrical device comprising: a first case portion; a second case portion attached to the first case portion such that an inner chamber defined therebetween, wherein the inner chamber is configured to receive a portable electrical device, the first and second case portions are selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to enclose the portable electrical device therein, the first case portion including an opening providing visual access to the inner chamber, the opening being sealingly closed by a screen, the screen being configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber; and a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions and configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber.
 2. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the first case portion includes an access opening to permit access to a portion of the inner chamber, whereby a user can bring an item into direct engagement with a portion of a portable electrical device from outside the case.
 3. The protective case of claim 2, further including a plug for selectively sealingly closing the access opening, whereby the infiltration of water into the inner chamber is prevented.
 4. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the first and second case portions are hingedly attached to each other on a side of the first and second case portions.
 5. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the first and second case portions are configured to lockingly engage each other, whereby inadvertent opening of the case is minimized.
 6. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the case is salt water resistant.
 7. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the case is blood resistant.
 8. The protective case of claim 1, wherein the case is buoyant in fresh water or salt water.
 9. A system for protecting a portable electrical device comprising: a protective case including a first case portion and a second case portion, the first and second case portions collectively defining an inner chamber configured to receive a portable electrical device; and a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber, the first case portion including an opening providing visual access to at least a portion of the portable electrical device in the inner chamber, the opening being sealingly closed by a screen, the screen being configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber, the first and second case portions being selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions enclose the portable electrical device within the inner chamber, a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions and configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber when the case is in the closed configuration.
 10. The system of claim 9, further including a bracket for supporting at least a portion of the case, wherein the bracket includes a cradle portion for supporting at least a portion of a side of the case.
 11. The system of claim 10, further including a base, wherein the bracket is attached to the base, and wherein the base is adapted for attachment to a support surface.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the bracket is selectively pivotably attached to the bracket.
 13. The system of claim 9, further including a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions and configured to prevent the infiltration of water into the inner chamber.
 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the case is blood resistant.
 15. The system of claim 9, wherein the portable electrical device is a tablet computer having a touchscreen, wherein the touchscreen is operable from outside the case through the screen.
 16. A system for protecting a portable electrical device comprising: a support surface; and a protective case including a first case portion and a second case portion, the first and second case portions collectively defining an inner chamber configured to receive a portable electrical device, the case being configured to provide an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to sealingly enclose the portable electrical device therein, the protective case being operatively attached to the support surface, the first case portion including an opening providing visual access to at least a portion of a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber, the opening being sealingly closed by a screen.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the case is indirectly attached to the support surface by a mount attached to the support surface, wherein the mount engages the case.
 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the support surface is defined by a portion of a medical facility.
 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the support surface is defined by a portion of a vehicle.
 20. The system of claim 16, further including a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber. 